What is the appropriate service temperature for a Red Bordeaux?

The appropriate service temperature for a Red Bordeaux is typically between 15-18°C (59-64°F). Serving it within this temperature range allows the wine to express its full bouquet of flavors and aromas, enhancing the overall tasting experience. At slightly cooler temperatures, the wine’s tannins are more pronounced, allowing for a balanced initial impression that can evolve as the wine warms slightly in the glass. This temperature range maintains the wine's structure, promoting the right balance between acidity and fruitiness, which is particularly important for the complex profiles often found in Red Bordeaux wines.

A lower temperature might mute the wine's nuances, while a higher temperature could exaggerate alcoholic notes and diminish the freshness. This is why the chosen range is ideal for ensuring that the characteristics typical of Red Bordeaux, such as blackcurrant, plum, and earthy notes, can shine through distinctly.